Appenzell Alps Day Trip from Zurich – Farm Life & Cheese Tasting
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Venture to the Heidi-like region of eastern Switzerland on this full-day guided coach tour from Zurich. Discover the secrets behind Switzerland’s famous cheese! Trace the path of raw milk from grazing cows on lush meadows to production at the Appenzeller show dairy. Take in breathtaking mountain views on an aerial cable car ride to the top of Hoher Kasten and learn about local customs on a guided stroll through the charming village of Appenzell, where old traditions are still alive. Even better, you’ll travel in a personalized small group with a maximum of 16 people, ensuring a relaxed and immersive experience.
Available options
English
What's included
Full guided tour by professional multilingual guide
Small group of max. 16 guests
Visit to Appenzeller diary including museum and cheese tasting
Aerial cable car ride up to Mt. Hoher Kasten with its revolving restaurant and breath-taking views
Transportation in comfortable Mercedes minibus with AC and free WIFI
Guided walk through the charming and traditional village of Appenzell
Visit of a typical Swiss dairy farm
Carbon-balanced operations certified by myclimate
Detailed itinerary
1
Depart from central Zurich (Sihlquai Bus Station) in an air-conditioned minivan and set out on a scenic drive along beautiful Lake Zürich via the City of Rapperswil with its medieval castle to the gently rolling hills of the Appenzellerland with photo stops en route.
2
Discover a typically Swiss farm and taste a glass of fresh cow milk.
3
Stop 3
Find out how natural Swiss milk and herbs are turned into Switzerland's tangiest cheese at the Appenzeller show dairy in Stein AR. Marvel at the imposing cellar storing up to 12,500 wheels of cheese and try to guess the top secret ingredients of the world-famous Appenzeller cheese during a cheese tasting.
4
Your tour continues to the village of Brulisau where you'll board the aerial cable car to the panoramic Mt. Hoher Kasten. At 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), enjoy breathtaking views over the Rhine Valley and Austria's Voralberg region. Go for a walk through the Alpine Garden or enjoy lunch at the spectacular revolving mountain restaurant (not included).
5
Stop 5
Stroll through the town with your tour guide and learn about ancient traditions and customs of this region while browsing local specialty shops in the pedestrian zone with its decoratively painted wooden facades for around 15 minutes. Enjoy the remaining time to continue exploring the charming village of Appenzell at your own pace.
6
After a great day, we will drop you off again in Zurich, where the tour started.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
120 reviews
5★
74
4★
28
3★
9
2★
6
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
28 reviews
5★
22
4★
2
3★
3
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not suitable for infants under 6 years, exceptions only on request.
Meeting point
The official departure point for all tours departing from Zurich is Sihlquai Bus Station, near Zurich’s main train station (Zürich HB). Please check in at least 15 minutes before departure at the “Best of Switzerland Tours” counter with your QR code on your voucher ready, printed or electronically.
Important notes
We kindly request that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure and check in at the ticket counter marked with ''Best of Switzerland Tours''. Please have your confirmation details and proof of identification (ID) ready. You may present your tour voucher either as a printed copy or electronically on your smartphone or tablet.
If you are unfamiliar with the location, we recommend allowing extra time for your journey. Should you have any difficulty finding your way, please contact us as early as possible at +41 (0)44 710 50 50. Our team is available to assist you daily from 7:00 to 21:00.
About Zurich
Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, is a vibrant blend of modern urban life and traditional Swiss charm. Nestled between the Alps and a beautiful lake, it offers a unique mix of financial hub activity and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Europe.
Top Attractions
Old Town (Altstadt)
The historic heart of Zurich, with medieval streets, charming squares, and beautiful architecture.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free
Lake Zurich
A beautiful lake offering scenic views, water activities, and relaxing walks along its shores.
Nature
Half day or more
Free (activities may have costs)
Uetliberg
Zurich's local mountain, offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to escape the city.
Nature
Half day
CHF 12.80 for the train ride
Swiss National Museum (Landesmuseum)
A comprehensive museum showcasing Swiss history, culture, and artifacts from prehistoric times to the present.
Museum
2-3 hours
CHF 10
Kunsthaus Zurich
One of Switzerland's most important art museums, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art.
Museum
2-3 hours
CHF 12
Must-Try Local Dishes
Zürcher Geschnetzeltes
Sliced veal in a creamy mushroom sauce, often served with Rösti (Swiss potato pancake).
Main Dish
Contains meat and dairy.
Rösti
A Swiss potato pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Side Dish
Vegetarian.
Fondue
Melted cheese served in a pot, enjoyed by dipping bread into it.
Main Dish
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.
Zürcher Trout
Fresh trout from Lake Zurich, often served with lemon and herbs.
Main Dish
Contains fish.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Alps
Skiing at nearby resorts
Paragliding over Lake Zurich
Boat cruise on Lake Zurich
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Picnicking in parks
Exploring museums and galleries
Attending concerts and festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to February
Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, lake swimming, and festivals. Winter brings Christmas markets and skiing opportunities. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.
15-25°C, -2-5°C
59-77°F, 28-41°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German
- Widely spoken: English, French, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Zurich is generally very safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Zurich Airport • 13 km from city center
By train
Zurich Hauptbahnhof
By bus
Carparkplatz Oerlikon, Carparkplatz Triemli
Getting around
Public transport
Trams are efficient, punctual, and cover most of the city's attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi 433
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Altstadt)
Zurich West
Kreis 5 (District 5)
Kreis 4 (District 4)
Day trips
Lucerne
60 km from Zurich • Full day
A picturesque city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the famous Chapel Bridge, and its location on the shores of Lake Lucerne.
Rapperswil
40 km from Zurich • Half day
A charming town known as the 'Town of Roses' and its historic castle, offering beautiful views of Lake Zurich.
Mount Titlis
60 km from Zurich • Full day
A popular ski and hiking destination in the Swiss Alps, offering stunning views and year-round activities.
Festivals
Zurich Christmas Market • Late November to late December
Sechseläuten • Third weekend in April
Zurich Film Festival • Late September to early October
Pro tips
- Purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions
- Visit the Old Town early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the historic atmosphere
- Take a boat cruise on Lake Zurich for stunning views and a relaxing experience
- Explore Zurich West for a trendy and creative vibe with unique shops and restaurants
- Try Swiss chocolate and pastries at Confiserie Sprüngli, a must-visit for chocolate lovers
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
